Sri Lankan Elephants

There are many places and many different ways in which you can observe Sri Lankan Elephants. A wildlife safari in the Udawalawe National Park is highly recommended as this is the only National Park in Sri Lanka where an elephant sighting is guaranteed on each and every game drive. Alternatively you could also go to the Minneriya National Park where ‘The Gathering’ takes place.

The gathering of elephants in the Minneriya National Park is the largest annually recurring concentration of wild elephants in the world. It is rated at 6th place in Lonely Planet’s Top Ten Wildlife spectacles with over 300 elephants being regularly witnessed. This natural phenomenon occurs during the months of August through to end October.

You could also pay a visit to the Gal Oya National Park which is the only place where you can go on a boat safari and witness The Crossing. The Crossing occurs when Sri Lankan Elephants swim from one island to another at the Gal Oya National Park.

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To be an observer of the largest gathering of wild elephants in the world is a truly memorable experience, and an unforgettable opportunity to watch the social dynamics of these great creatures.

It is a unique phenomenon and can only be seen in the Minneriya National Park. Recently, this amazing gathering was listed as,

Number 6 in the Lonely Planet’s Guide to Natural Wildlife Spectacles of the World.

Elephants in Sri Lanka History and Culture

In Sri Lanka no other animal has been associated for so long with the people in their traditional and religious activities as the elephant. This association dates back to the pre-Christian era, more than 5,000 years. Ancient Sinhalese kings captured and tamed elephants which used to abound in the country.

Various methods of capture were employed, some indigenous, others introduced by neighbouring kings and countries that conquered and ruled Sri Lanka .

Gradually the number of elephants captured increased. All elephants were kept by the king in his stables. The methods of capture were refined and modified as time went on.

Elephant Back Rides - We have concerns about the way this is being done. However, there maybe a few ethical operators but in general we do not agree withthe “working hours”, how they give rest to the animals, trails they use etc.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage - We do not encourage our clients to visit the above either. We do not agree with the concept of how the establishment is run. We are happy to see that even the Born Free Foundation has now taken a similar stand.